These Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks are the ultimate way to turn a simple vegetable into a show-stopping side dish or appetizer. Coated in a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, these asparagus sticks are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a holiday side, game-day snack, or healthy weeknight treat, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Let’s whip up this easy, cheesy recipe and enjoy every bite of this crowd-pleasing veggie dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Cheesy: The Parmesan coating adds a rich, savory crunch that pairs perfectly with tender asparagus.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthy & Delicious: A guilt-free way to enjoy your veggies without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Asparagus Sticks:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs for a finer texture)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
- Lemon aioli
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus spears by snapping them or cutting them with a knife.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the egg.
3. Coat the Asparagus
- Dip each asparagus spear into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Roll the spear in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
- Place the coated asparagus sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each spear.
4. Bake Until Crispy
- Lightly drizzle the asparagus sticks with olive oil (optional) to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the asparagus is tender but still crisp.